How MANE Is Addressing COVID-19

The MANE staff has worked diligently to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Here’s what we’ve done:

  • In June 2020, MANE implemented the first phase of reopening by moving “Whinnie’s Outreach” to pre-screened facilities to give those in need an opportunity for continuing education, emotional support, and exercise.
  • A limited number of masked, veteran volunteers returned to the facility to assist with barn chores, facility projects, and equine care.
  • In July 2020, MANE’s staff held mock therapy classes to practice and perfect streamline procedures to protect all participants.
  • As volunteers and horses adapted to safety precautions recommended by the CDC, Governor Kay Ivey, and PATH, Intl., MANE riders still at home practiced wearing a helmet and facial covering for their estimated class time. Wearing a mask for even a short time can prove challenging to most individuals, with and without disabilities.
  • On August 10th, 2020, the MANE staff welcomed students back for a limited-enrollment 6-week Summer Session. Parents and students were asked to provide their own riding helmet and facial covering to limit the risk of viral cross-contamination from shared safety equipment.

New guidelines we have put in place:

  • In accordance with new safety guidelines, participants are now required to remain in their vehicle until approached by a member of MANE staff.
  • Safety equipment must be donned before exiting their vehicle.
  • The MANE office building remains closed to individuals other than staff, while volunteers practice social distancing and are encouraged to mask.
  • Family members and guardians of participants are required to remain in their vehicles.
  • While therapeutic riding classes are being held, staff, participants, and volunteers must remain masked and practice social distancing.
  • Mobile sanitization stations are available and frequent use is encouraged.
  • At the conclusion of a class, participants are escorted to their vehicles, horses are untacked, and equipment is thoroughly disinfected.